NYCT restores service following water main break

An early morning water main break at 13 St. and 5 Ave. in Greenwich village in New York flooded subway tunnels servicing the A, B, C, D, F and M lines with thousands of gallons of water causing service disruptions into the morning peak period affecting tens of thousands of subway riders.

Reports indicated that the 36-inch cast iron main that ruptured dates back to before 1900. New York City Transit (NYCT) personnel were "at the ready" and once the water was contained, they began repair work.

Two pump trains were dispatched but were not needed. A pump room located at 9 St., as well as portable pumps that were positioned into the area were able to pump water that had risen 24-30 inches along 300 feet of track north of the West 4 St. station. Drains along the tracks were able to absorb much of the water that had entered the system. NYCT said the drains performed well as a result of the attention they have received during FASTRACK maintenance work along that corridor.

Workers then sprang into action to clear muck and debris from the tracks, assess damage and make necessary repairs. After test trains ran through the area, full service was restored.